19 degrees at work harmless for healthy people
According to German occupational physicians, if energy-saving plans are implemented in companies and indoor temperatures are reduced by a few degrees, no direct negative health effects are to be feared. However, in the case of pre-existing conditions or specific work requirements, consultation with an occupational physician is recommended.
There is still no provision from the federal government to set maximum temperatures indoors. While the upper limit for indoor temperatures in public buildings in Germany has already been lowered to 19 °C, many employers and employees fear negative health effects if it gets too cold in the office. The German Society for Occupational and Environmental Medicine (DGAUM) believes that lowering the room temperature is basically harmless for people without pre-existing conditions. However, the occupational health and safety institution considers fixedThe manufacturer is of the opinion that for certain activities, lower temperatures could lead to minor performance losses. In the event of pre-existing conditions or specific work requirements, clarifications would have to be made in this case.
No direct health effects
The DGAUM states that people without pre-existing conditions would not have to fear any negative health effects from a small reduction in room temperature. However, people with pre-existing conditions could face health problems, according to the WHO. Such pre-existing health conditions include, for example, a higher susceptibility to respiratory diseases, existing asthma symptoms, and high blood pressure.
Blood pressure rises in cold temperatures. However, cold air is a possible trigger for asthma symptoms only at temperatures below zero. In colder air, asthma would be undertreated, for example, and it would be advisable to adjust the medication or therapy so that the patient can better tolerate everyday thermal stimuli. However, lower temperatures can also have an impact on rheumatic diseases.
The DGAUM therefore recommends contacting occupational physicians if there is any uncertainty. Two aspects in particular are important. For example, the individual characteristics of the employee, such as rheumatism or anemia (a disease in which the number of red blood cells is low). In addition, it is also important to analyze the specific work requirements on site at the workplace.
Source: DGAUM/Editorial Office
